n honor of our AEO Performance launch we asked a few of our fitness-obsessed Home Office Associates to choose pieces from the new collection that they rock before, during, and after their workouts. – See more at: http://www.ae.com/blog/#sthash.n9UdRYQQ.dpuf

I love the AEO Performance Ruffleback Tank. It comes in so many great colors and the details are so pretty and feminine. It’s a serious upgrade on the plain workout tank and shows off our crossback bras. Our leggings are so comfy and look really cute paired with the New Balance 792 Sneaker for the walk to the studio.The AEO Performance Mesh Peplum Tank & AEO Performance Striped Crop Pant are my other two favorites. I get tons of compliments every time I wear them to my studio.

How did you decide to start doing yoga?

I started practicing right after college because I’d done it in high school on a VHS, liked it, and needed to stay in shape as an “adult”. I lucked out and found the best studio ever with amazing teachers in Pittsburgh. I haven’t stopped going for the last four years. Now I teach for that studio, assist their teacher training program and throw a glow in the dark yoga party every few months with tons of neon and black lights. Doing yoga has become more of a lifestyle for me and less of a means to stay fit.

Catherine teaching her glow in the dark yoga class.

Catherine practicing yoga.

What tips would you give people who are thinking about starting yoga or are new yogis?

I have a few pieces of advice:

Be open-minded (and don’t make excuses). No one cares if you’re flexible or not or if you om off-key. It’s all about coming together and creating positive energy.

Everyone’s first time is nerve-racking. Give yourself props for trying something new and don’t worry if you don’t know all the poses right away.

Try a few studios. Not all yoga studios are the same. Try a few places with different styles and see what fits you best.

Some of the classes you teach feature great playlists. How do you choose the perfect music for a yoga class?

I love teaching to unexpected music. A lot of yoga classes are set to music you’d expect for yoga, but I try to just play whatever I’m currently loving because my students end up loving it too. I play a wide range: from electronic dance to chill instrumentals to well-known favorites from the radio. Check out my Spotify playlist of favorite yoga songs for your own practice.

How do you stay motivated to keep fit as a yogi?

Since I do heated power yoga, I get everything I need in a workout in 75 minutes. The practice doesn’t get boring because I’m always learning new poses and tricks to keep it interesting. I’ve even tried aerial and paddle board yoga. The challenge is finding the time to get to my mat, but I’m motivated because if I haven’t practiced in a few days, I feel the consequences in my mental clarity and energy level. I need it.